SirachChapter 31

Sirach Chapter 31: Meaning

Ben Sira warns against trusting dreams and calls people to give generously to God.

Summary

This chapter starts by warning about dreams. Ben Sira says that dreams are empty and can fool people. Chasing after dreams is like chasing the wind, you can't catch anything real. Only dreams sent by God are worth paying attention to.

Next, the chapter talks about worship. If someone steals from others and then brings a gift to God, that gift means nothing. God won't accept offerings from people who do wrong. Taking food from the poor or cheating a worker is like murder in God's eyes.

Then Ben Sira explains what real worship looks like. Following God's commands is the best offering you can give. Being kind, giving to people in need, and turning away from sin, these are what please God most.

The chapter ends with a call to give to God generously and happily. God will pay back what you give, seven times over! Don't try to bribe God or give dishonest gifts. God is fair and always hears the poor, the orphan, and the widow.

Historical Context

This was written around 180 BC by a Jewish teacher named Ben Sira. He lived in Jerusalem and watched how people practiced their faith. Some people gave offerings at the temple but lived dishonest lives. Ben Sira wanted to remind people that God cares about how you treat others, not just what you put on the altar.

In those days, people often took dreams very seriously as messages from God or spirits. Ben Sira pushed back on that idea, saying most dreams are just made-up thoughts, not real messages from God.